Volunteering

United Way’s mission to improve lives and strengthen communities is fueled by the passion and hard work of 2.6 million volunteers. People are giving their time and talents to create lasting solutions that improve life for everyone.

Real community change isn't just fueled by money or programs or policies. A lot of times, volunteers are powering the most meaningful community solutions, helping people all across that community.

Giving your time, talent or skills is no small thing. Volunteers who tackle community solutions through United Way know that it takes a bigger solution strategy to make a real difference. United Way volunteering means plugging into that bigger solution, and helping make a lasting difference that impacts many. Across the globe, United Way volunteer efforts target education, financial stability and health, because those are cornerstones of individual and collective success.

Volunteer

Volunteering though United Way means turning ideas into action that makes a big difference. That could mean reading with students to help them create a solid academic footing early on. Or putting your accounting skills to useto help people with their taxes, which can make the difference in recovering their hard-earned dollars. Or spending your spring breakrebuilding a community that’s reeling from natural disaster. Or mentoring a kidto give him more support to stay on track, graduate and be equipped for success in college, work and life.

Any way you do it, you're paying it forward. And you're benefitting, too. Many studies confirm that people who volunteer are happier and feel more connected to their community. Volunteering is just one way that we can work together for the greater good. That’s what it means to LIVE UNITED.

Here are just a few of the ways that United Way volunteers are changing lives.

Day of Action

Day of Action

What began in the United States in 2008 is now a worldwide movement: United Way’s Day of Action. Held every June 21, it's an invitation to act. It's a chance for anyone to volunteer, in a way that makes a big difference. United Way volunteers are part of a larger community change strategy, working to improve education, financial stability and health —for individuals and for communities. Get Involved on United Way's Day of Action.

Our Volunteers

Read, Tutor, Mentor

More than 350,000 people have pledged to read, tutor or mentor a child through their local United Way—and our numbers are growing every day. From NFL players to senior citizens to faith communities, these volunteers are passionate about making a difference in a child's life. United Way volunteers are changing the face of education and improving kids’ odds for success.

See how United Way of Tennessee launched a statewide effort, Raise Your Hand Tennessee, that gave people a chance to volunteer to help kids succeed in school, work and life.

Alternative Spring Break

Join more than 3,500 college students. Trade in your beach towel for a tool belt during your next spring break. As part of United Way's Alternative Spring Break, you'll be able to improve communities across the globe. You might build homes, create community gardens, or help a community get back on its feet. Get inspired, and get going.